Pirates hook up with Zark’s for D-League

ZARK’S Burger struggled in its maiden foray in the PBA D-League last season, winning only one game in the Foundation Cup.

The Jawbreakers’ fortunes, however, could drastically change this time.

Zark’s has tied up with last season’s NCAA runner-up Lyceum for the Aspirant’s Cup kicking off Jan. 18 next year.

“‘Yung goal that time was giving chance to other players. Unfortunately, hindi pinalad last conference,” Zark’s owner Rolandrei Viktor “Commie” Varona said yesterday during the team’s press launch at Zark’s on Taft Avenue, Manila.

“This time, tapos na muna tayo sa give chance to others. Now, we want to associate our brand to winning. It’s time to win,” he added.

Varona has good reason to be optimistic since the Jawbreakers will parade the core of the Pirates squad that swept the eliminations of the last NCAA tourney. Lyceum, however, was beaten by defending champion San Beda in the Big Dance in two games.

Coach Topex Robinson welcomed the partnership, noting it will give his charges the needed experience they need in the 94th NCAA tournament next year.

“For us, this is really always trying to better ourselves. We are going to try to get better in the D-League, which is a good opportunity for us as a team, as a school, and as part of Zark’s,” said Robinson. “The more opportunity for us to really hone our skills, the better.”

Defending champion Cignal HD, whose core is made up of San Beda, has filed a leave of absence in both the Aspirant’s and Foundation Cup but perennial contenders Tanduay, Centro Escolar University, and Marinerong Pilipino are still there.

Collegiate teams Perpetual Help, Jose Rizal U, St. Benilde, and Emilio Aguinaldo College are also joining the Aspirant’s Cup.

Robinson said the Intramuros-based squad has moved on from their stinging finals heartbreak.

“This opportunity will further help them to be known. Same vision as what Sir Commie said. We are very excited,” he said. “We don’t think about redemption. It’s improvement every time we get an opportunity.” – Michael Jugado

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